22Oct

22Oct

Core-Strengthening Powerbands Moves To Do Anywhere

Rock out with the band. One of the best tools you can keep in your workout arsenal or gymbag are basically powerbands. They can help you take bodyweight exercises to the next level, are a great addition to any strength training routine and the exercise variations are endless.

People tend to think of the abs like all other muscles—they cause movement. It’s easy to visualize how situps, crunches, and twists work the abs because you can see them working, so these usually become a guy’s go-to ab exercises. But the abs are special in that their main function is actually to resist movement, keeping the spine straight and torso locked in place regardless of what movements the arms and legs are making. When your core can prevent your torso from moving as well as it can initiate a movement, you’ll have complete abdominal development.

We pull together some powerbands exercises that target the muscles of your core. All of these moves really challenge your obliques and the entire abdominal wall. And while the midsection is the focus, you'll challenge your upper and lower body as well, making these moves the perfect addition to your strength routine.

Choose a resistance band that feels challenging but allows you to maintain good form throughout the workout. For most exercises, try aiming for 5 to 10 reps for 2 to 3 sets per exercise. For beginners, choose 5 exercises below and perform 2 rounds of 5 to 8 reps. For intermediate or advanced exercisers, choose 7 exercises below and perform 3 rounds of 8 to 10 reps.